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Making connections
through design
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The idea of getting to completely decorate a house from top to bottom might sound like a dream at first, but could quickly become daunting when considering all the decisions that have to be made. Luckily for the 209 region, Michelle Hall has a natural aptitude for making such decisions.

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Hall is the owner of The Staging Studio and Design Company, a home design operation offering clients guidance on all aspects of interior design.

“I found I had a knack for design,” Hall said. “It’s something I really enjoy, especially the personal connections.”

The Staging Studio and Design Company offers clients design consultations that can range from color palettes, art placement and space planning. But the business’ specialty is in staging homes that are on the market.

“When a potential buyer walks into one of our staged homes, I want them to marvel at the design and also feel inspired to make it their own,” Hall said.

When staging a house for sale, designers steer away from the personal aspects of the individual homeowner and instead focus on creating a design that will appeal to the broadest audience.

“We want to create a space that a potential buyer can see themselves calling home,” Hall said.

Hall’s foray into home staging began as a favor for a friend, the results of which started generating some buzz among local real estate agents. 

“It really took off,” Hall said. “That little favor turned into a big thing for me.”

She opened The Staging Studio and Design Company three years ago and in January she expanded her operations with a site at 615 C Street in downtown Tracy that she said is already full of inventory.

For real estate professionals, staging a home has more benefits than just making it look nice for showings. According to the National Association of Realtors, 53% of Realtors said a staged home spends less time on the market compared to a non-staged home and 44% said it increases the dollar value offered.

In the digital age buyers typically start their home search online and using professional photos of a staged home are more likely to generate interest. 

Hall shares design and style tips through the Staging Studio on Facebook at fb.com/Thestagingstudio or on Instagram @thestagingstudio. Visit the website at thestagingstudio.com.


Looking to spruce up the style in your own home. Here are three design tips from The Staging Studio and Design Company’s Michelle Hall that will make a big impact in your home.

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Let the light in

“Allow as much natural light into your home as possible,” Hall said. “A brighter space looks cleaner, crisper and invites the life in.”

Keep it in proportion 

“One thing that can make a living room look crowded and small is having a sectional or couch that doesn’t fit the space,” Hall said. “Keep in mind your space and find something that is the right proportion.”

Bare your counters

“As much as possible keep your kitchen counters clutter-free,” Hall said. “Having clutter-free counters actually invites in more creativity and brings in a different type of energy.”

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